Caring for Your Bunny: Common Rabbit Illnesses

Rabbits don't take well to illness, as hardy little creatures as they are; they still have a really hard time dealing with internal difficulties. Many illnesses in bunnies are fatal if left untreated, and some are extremely hard to treat even when they've been caught in time. So it's our duty as bunny owners to look after out furry friends and keep them feeling their best.

The most common reason for our little baby bunny's not feeling so chipper is actually in the diet we give them. If you're like me, it's a little hard to resist giving them that extra treat, especially when they're calling up into your lap and licking you like a happy little puppy. However, it is very important to make sure your rabbit maintains a healthy diet. Try and find treats that are healthy and okay to eat often if you know you're going to spoil your little critter rotten. Stay away from foods that are high in starch, these will cause a world of problems starting with diarrhea. A healthy rabbit diet includes eating hay or fresh grass, plenty of calcium (sunlight for the vitamin D to process the calcium) and food pellets. Don't let your bunny just pick out the "good" stuff. Be sure they're getting plenty of pellets. Pick out extras that your bunny can eat later, ration the "good" stuff, or simply buy only pellets. Fresh fruits and veggies are great treats, but do limit them. If diarrhea develops, take them away and feed them only hay for at least 24 hours. Additionally, your bunny will need a nice salt lick (salt wheel) to nibble on, as well as some chew toys. This will help to curb teeth growth and boredom.

Other ways to avoid diarrhea due to dietary onsets is to make sure your pet gets plenty of exercise. Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle cause major problems in rabbits that span far beyond simply having diarrhea. So be sure to give your bunny enough play time, and encourage them to run around. If you get them young enough and they have all their shots, take them out for a romp in the park or the backyard on a leash. Just be sure to check for parasites if they play outside.